Developed specifically to win at the Isle of Man TT, the Norton Manx was one of the most successful and iconic racing motorcycles of its era. Originally introduced in 1947 as a racing development of the Norton International, the Manx featured a single cylinder overhead cam engine available in 350cc and 500cc displacements. In 1950, the model gained the revolutionary Featherbed frame, designed by the McCandless brothers, which gave it superb handling and cemented the Manx’s reputation as the privateer racers weapon of choice.
By the late 1950s and early 1960s, the Manx had become the backbone of international racing grids. Its DOHC single, paired with Norton’s race bred chassis, proved durable, competitive, and relatively accessible compared to factory machinery. Even after Norton withdrew from Grand Prix racing in 1954, production Manx machines remained available to select customers, and privateers continued to use them to great effect. A major engine redesign in 1953 with a shorter stroke allowed the motor to rev higher and broadened its competitiveness in an increasingly demanding racing landscape.
1962 marked the end of factory built Manx production at Norton’s Bracebridge Street works, making examples from this period highly sought after today. More than just a motorcycle, the Manx represents an era when single cylinder British racers dominated world competition. From its Isle of Man TT victories to its lasting role in classic racing, the Manx endures as one of the most legendary names in motorcycling history.
The seller states that they believe this is a reproduction featherbed frame, therefore this race bike does not have a VIN.
As a race bike there is no odometer, and the bike is True Mileage Unknown. The seller has owned the bike for 15 years, displayed in their home.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok, ALMOST EMPTY
Engine Oil Quality: UNKNOWN
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A, Air Cooled
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A, Cable
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A, Cable
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok
Headlight High Beam: N/A, RACE BIKE
Headlight Low Beam: N/A
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: N/A
Brake Light (Front Switch): N/A
Brake Light (Rear Switch): N/A
Plate Light: N/A
Horn: N/A
Kill Switch: N/A
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: Drum
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: Drum
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: Pre-2000, SLIGHT CRACKING
Tire Date Code Rear: 11/02
Tire % Remaining Front: 70%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 60%
Tire Press. Front: 32 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 36 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: N/A
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: UNKNOWN
Running Condition: UNKNOWN
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
**ENGINE TURNS FREELY**
*RACE BIKE – No signals, horns, lights or taillight
-Tires are aged
-Oil sump tank almost empty
-Exhaust has a rust hole pre “silencer”
RECOMMENDED REPAIRS:
-Engine oil
-Tires
Modifications:
The bike is built from what is believed to be a combination of original and reproduction parts.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Racing KR73 tires which have aged out.
There are no keys as this is a race bike. The sale includes a Norton bike stand.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Norton is offered on a Bill Of Sale. Have any Manx stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
